LUCKNOW: With the monsoon yet to arrive in Uttar Pradesh, the state government has extended the tourist season in tiger reserves by 15 days, allowing visitors to continue safaris till June 30 instead of the scheduled closure on June 15.
The extension also means that the current tourist season will last for eight months, having started 15 days earlier than usual on November 1, 2025. Tiger reserves in the state usually open to tourists on November 15 every year.
“Dudhwa Tiger Reserve, Pilibhit Tiger Reserve, Amangarh Tiger Reserve and Ranipur Tiger Reserve will remain open for tourists till June 30,” said Anuradha Vemuri, chief conservator of forests (wildlife), Uttar Pradesh.
Officials said the decision was taken after reviewing the prevailing weather conditions, as the delayed onset of monsoon created a favorable window for expanding tourism activities.
“The government took the decision after considering the climatic conditions and necessary discussions with the authorities,” said H Rajamohan, field director of Dudhwa Tiger Reserve.
Rajamohan said more than 80,000 Indian and foreign tourists have visited Dudhwa this season so far, and authorities expect another 10,000 to 15,000 visitors before the end of June.
According to officials, all visitor facilities and safari operations will continue during the extended period.
“Under the order extending the closure date, all facilities for visitors will continue till June 30,” said BP Singh, field director of Pilibhit Tiger Reserve, also known for bird watching, wildlife photography and nature-based activities.
Forest officials said weather conditions are currently considered safe for tourists and wildlife tourism for the next two weeks. But they added that safari operations could be restricted if heavy rains start earlier than expected.
